WWII FN Browning WaA613 Tangent Hi Power 9mm Slotted Pistol 1940
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $6,030.00
Few sidearms are as globally recognized as the Browning Hi Power. This early WWII example was produced in 1940 at Fabrique Nationale under German occupation and bears the desirable WaA613 inspection marks. With its tangent rear sight and slotted back strap for a shoulder stock, it represents one of the more sought after early war configurations.
Identification
MMA#: 260103SN001
Make: Fabrique Nationale, produced under NSDAP German occupation
Model: P35 Hi Power WaA613
Serial Number: 51005
Year of Manufacture: 1940
Caliber: 9mm Parabellum
Action Type: Single Action Semi Auto Pistol with removable magazine
Barrel Length: 4 5/8 inches
Sights and Features
The front sight is a tapered serrated blade dovetailed to a fixed base on the slide. The rear sight is a Type 2 tangent sight with a V notch, graduated from 50 to 500 meters. The back strap is slotted to accept a wooden shoulder stock, a feature seen on early production Hi Power pistols before wartime simplification reduced manufacturing time.
The pistol retains matching serial numbers on the barrel, slide, and frame.
Grip Configuration and Condition
The grips are two piece checkered wood panels. There are a few small nicks and scratches on each panel, with more noticeable marks along the lower border of the left panel. The checkering remains sharp and there are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.
Finish and Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
This pistol retains approximately 88 percent of its original finish. There is finish loss along the leading edges and a couple of notable spots toward the front of the right side of the slide. There are scattered nicks and scratches, along with light dustings of oxidation and more visible oxidation on the grip straps. Screw heads remain sharp and markings are clear. Overall condition rates Very Good Plus.
Bore and Mechanics
Bore Condition: The bore is mainly bright with sharp rifling. There is faint erosion in the front half of the bore. It rates approximately 8.5 out of 10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The magazine disconnect is present. The trigger is crisp and slide to frame fit is tight with minimal play. The pistol was not test fired.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories
Includes one 13 round magazine and a black leather holster. No high capacity magazine will be included where prohibited by law.
Our Assessment
The Browning Hi Power began as one of John Browning’s final design efforts and was completed by Dieudonné Saive at Fabrique Nationale after Browning’s death in 1926. The pistol’s 13 round magazine capacity gave rise to the Hi Power name and made it one of the most advanced service pistols of its era.
When Germany invaded Belgium in 1940, FN production continued under occupation. Early occupation pistols retained features such as tangent sights and stock slots, along with German inspection marks including WaA613. Later wartime production simplified these features to increase output. This 1940 example falls squarely within the early occupation range and remains matching throughout.
With strong original finish, matching numbers, and desirable tangent sight configuration, this Hi Power stands as an important and collectible WWII sidearm.
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Every firearm offered by Mt. McCoy Auctions is carefully documented to preserve an accurate archival record. Detailed descriptions and high resolution photography provide transparency for collectors and enthusiasts. Each piece is evaluated with respect for its historical significance and mechanical integrity.
